Frail drug courier Lindsay Sandiford narrowly avoided a death sentence in Bali following a plea from Keir Starmer, leading to her imminent return to the UK after spending 12 years in Indonesia’s Kerobokan prison for smuggling £1.6m worth of cocaine. Indonesian authorities, upon confirmation of her deteriorating health by UK doctors, agreed to her repatriation following personal appeals from UK officials such as Keir Starmer and Yvette Cooper.
The transfer process back to the UK is expected to happen soon, with Sandiford likely to be handed over to UK authorities at the airport. This development signifies the end of a challenging period for Sandiford and signifies a positive turn in UK-Indonesia relations. The agreement for her return includes a reciprocal understanding for potential repatriation requests for Indonesian prisoners serving sentences in the UK.
Yusril Ihza Mahendra, Indonesia’s senior law and human rights minister, confirmed Sandiford’s critical health condition and the planned transfer back to the UK, along with another inmate, Shahab Shahabadi. The official approval for the transfers was reached following requests from British officials to President Prabowo Subianto. The signing of the agreement between Yusril and the British Ambassador to Indonesia marks a significant milestone in Sandiford’s case.
Sandiford’s ordeal began in 2012 when she was caught smuggling cocaine in Bali, claiming coercion by a criminal gang to transport the drugs. Despite her cooperation with authorities, legal appeals were unsuccessful, leading to her conviction and a death sentence. Renowned human rights barrister Dr. Felicity Gerry KC has advocated for her release upon her return to the UK, citing the extraordinary circumstances of her case.
Sandiford’s impending return home is a relief for supporters, who have long campaigned for her freedom. Her 12-year sentence in Indonesia is likely to lead to her immediate release upon arrival in the UK, given the absence of the death penalty in British law. Dr. Gerry emphasized the need for psychological support for Sandiford due to the traumatic experiences she endured during her time in custody.
Despite facing the prospect of execution in Indonesia, Sandiford remained resilient, expressing acceptance of her fate and a desire for a positive outlook. Her repatriation comes at a time when Indonesia has relaxed its stringent drug laws, offering hope to other inmates in similar situations. Sandiford’s return will mark the end of a challenging chapter in her life, with expectations for a smoother transition back to the UK.